Various types of connectors are used in home appliances and air-conditioning systems to create reliable contacts between different parts of electric circuits. In recent years, the number and types of connectors have multiplied as advanced sensors, controls, and communication/networking capabilities are incorporated into more intelligent appliances.

ANN ARBOR, MI--Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are very common on assembly lines, due to repetitive tasks.

The Chairless Chair is a lower-body exoskeleton that provides back support and correct body posture for assemblers.

FREMONT, CA--Elon Musk plans to work on the assembly line at his Tesla auto plant.

Even though the Great Recession has passed, manufacturers in many industries are still adjusting to the reality of a downsized market struggling to get back to its glory days.

NEW YORK—Approximately 3.7 million workers are injured at work each year, costing businesses $170 billion annually. Injuries caused during material handling represent the majority of incidents, accounting for 32 percent of insurance claims.

DEARBORN, MI—Since 2003, Ford has reduced the injury rate by 70 percent for its more than 50,000 “industrial athletes” in the U.S., and many more around the world, through new ergonomics technology, lift-assist devices, workstation redesign and data-driven process changes.